WWII glider pilots meet in Sicily

WWII glider pilots meet in Sicily

(EXCERPT) , By Kendra Helmer, Stars and Stripes European edition,
Monday, July 14, 2003

SYRACUSE, Sicily — Howard Johnson sat in the co-pilot seat of the
fabric-covered wood and metal glider, scanning the night sky for
Sicily’s beaches.

It was July 9, 1943, the first Allied air operation of World War II.

Johnson was in one of 140 gliders hooked to tow planes that left
Tunisia for Axis-held Sicily. Enemy fire and searchlights lit up the
sky.

“When we approached, somebody got the idea there was too much flak
over Syracuse and they turned out to sea,” said Johnson, 83. “We cut
our own [tow line and did our best to try to get in. Fortunately we
didn’t.”

The glider crashed into the sea, 100 yards from what Johnson thought
was a beach.

“The next morning we found out it...

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---------------------------
Otis Willie
Associate Librarian
The American War Library
http://www.americanwarlibrary.com